Over the course of 10 years, researchers, growers, and irrigation district personnel worked together to test strategies for maximizing water use in the Lower Rio Grande Valley (RGV). The findings are in, support is available, and it’s time to implement and improve agriculture operations in the Valley.
TexasAWE.org is your resource for detailed data on the best ways to manage water in surface water districts using the latest technology, and for research-tested on-farm irrigation practices that can increase profit while saving water.
This guide shows manageable ways to achieve big water savings through proven practices—both on-farm and in-district. Sometimes small changes can have a big impact, especially when they’re implemented region-wide.
Let’s get started.
The study was documented in detail – everything is public. The Harlingen Irrigation District (HID) led the charge with funding from the Texas Water Development Board and more between the years 2005 to 2014. The annual reports can be found here.
Individual farmers, with the research team, reported their findings in real-life application on cotton, citrus, corn and sugar cane crops. Irrigation district delivery and metrics were studied and improved. A LRGV regional classroom was built and is available for you - now! Contact HID for access to the Rio Grande Center for Ag Water Efficiency.
In 2017, TCEQ awarded the group study with the Texas Environmental Education Award Winner in Agriculture Category. Our work on modifying "large pan" flooding into "narrow border" flooding for citrus crops won this prestigious award. Watch the video here.
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